Goyambokka Beach: A Hidden Gem In Tangalle
- Kate Colliety
- Jun 18
- 5 min read
We almost missed Goyambokka beach - here’s why you shouldn’t miss it! The horseshoe bay of Goyambokka Beach has risen in popularity and is now one of Tangalle’s most famous beaches. Tangalle is located on the south coast but is just a little too far east to be on most people's itinerary, this makes it perfect for people trying to find a quiet corner of Sri Lanka.
Truthfully, Goyambokka was our second beach of the day and we were hot, overstimulated after driving through ‘local’ Tangalle and tensions were running high. However, as we emerged out of the narrow alleyway that we were directed down to reach the beach we were greeted by the Indian Ocean and smiling locals, you could almost see our shoulders relax.
The sea here is calm enough to swim in, which is unusual around Tangalle, the bay is protected by an offshore reef that might even be worth exploring with a snorkel. Plus there are relaxed beach bars with sun lounges to rent. It felt like we’d walked into a hidden gem, untouched enough for it to feel authentic but with just the right touch of tourism.
Goyambokka Beach makes the perfect morning trip from Tangalle, just 12-minutes away or a great holiday base due to many luxury resorts surrounding the area, plus it’s near Yala National Park.
If you’re looking for a postcard perfect beach with the essence of Asia, we’re talking palm trees, seafood on the beach and honey-coloured sand then you need to add Goyambokka to your list, our advice, arrive early before the heat gets too much!
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Where Is Goyambokka Beach Tangalle?
Tangalle marks the end of the popular south coast, meaning it’s quieter and less developed than places such as Hiriketiya and Weligama.
Goyambokka Beach can be found a 12-minute drive away from Tangalle, down the A2 and through the busy, local main town where we grabbed a breakfast of rotis most days.
Along this area of coastline there’s plenty of beaches to explore such as Goyambokka Beach, which is the most developed for tourists, and quieter options like Silent Beach and Jungle Beach, both of which were deserted when we visited. There are also many more hidden spots we didn’t get the chance to explore!
Explore our full Tangalle Travel Blog
How To Get To Goyambokka Beach?
Once you’ve made it to Tangalle, either via a private taxi driver, bus or hired tuktuk you’re not far away. We chose to base ourselves in Tangalle, although there are many luxury resorts around Goyambokka that we liked the look of, but our backpacker budget didn’t!
If you’re wondering how to get to Goyambokka Beach from Tangalle, the easiest option is to take your tuk-tuk or taxi (500 LKR) along the scenic coastal road. From Tangalle the drive will take 12 minutes to the entrance of the beach. You will know when you’ve arrived due to the sign and all the taxis lined up ready to take tourists back.
If you are driving your own tuktuk we parked just past the sign, away from the taxis and tucked as far next to the wall as we could, we also never leave anything valuable inside.
What To Expect At Goyambokka Beach
Lying on a sunbed sipping a cocktail was the dream when we left to explore Asia, but unfortunately it didn’t happen very much in 8-months…we’re more jungle treks and watersports.
That was until we found Goyambokka Beach. With less crowds than other spots on the south coast sun loungers were available and cheap drinks on the sand were flowing.
The day went by lazily, a mixture of sunbathing and cooling off in the water. We also liked that Goyambokka beach had a few restaurants meaning you can eat your lunch in your bikini. We recommend Yellow Mellow Restaurant & Bar.
We didn’t get to stay for sunset but we can imagine evening drinks here would provide a fantastic view!
What To Do Nearby Goyambokka Beach
Tangalle - Of course there’s so much more to explore around Tangalle such as the Hummanaya Blow Hole and other beaches that are more wild and less explored!
Rekawa Beach - Famous for turtles you can join a tour to watch them lay their eggs or if you’re lucky see the new hatchlings make their first journey to the sea.
Yala National Park - Although Yala is extremely busy you do have a high chance of seeing a leopard, something we wished we had seen during our time in Sri Lanka!
Goyambokka Beach Hotels
If, like us, your budget doesn’t stretch the conch blowers then we recommend staying at Goyambokka Guest House. It provides simple but comfortable rooms with access to a pool and onsite restaurant that serves the local cuisine.
On a cliff and nestled within a coconut plantation, you can find the luxury resort of Anantara Peace Haven. We're sold on being welcomed by traditional raban drums and sent off by conch shell blowers but you also get individual plunge pools, a personal butler and a beautiful villa!
Goyambokka Beach Common Questions
When to visit Goyambokka Beach
The best time to visit Goyambokka Beach is during the dry season which runs from November to March and the temperature sits between 25°c and 30°c. This is also when the sea will be calmer and better for swimming.
Is Goyambokka Beach good for surfing?
Goyambokka isn’t a surf beach but great news, you’re not too far away from Hiriketiya, one of the best surf beaches in the country.
How much does it cost to get to Goyambokka Beach from Tangalle?
A tuk-tuk from Tangalle to Goyambokka Beach costs around 500 LKR (approximately $1.50 USD) and takes 12 minutes. If you're coming direct from Colombo airport, expect to pay $90-100 USD for a private taxi, which takes about 3.5 hours via the highway.
Can you swim safely at Goyambokka Beach?
Yes! Unlike many beaches around Tangalle, Goyambokka has calm, swimmable waters thanks to an offshore reef that breaks the waves.
Can I see turtles at Goyambokka Beach?
While you might spot sea turtles swimming in the bay, for guaranteed turtle viewing head to nearby Rekawa Beach (20 minutes away). Rekawa is famous for turtle nesting, and you can join evening tours to watch them lay eggs or see hatchlings make their first journey to the sea.
Best Tangalle Tours
Tangalle Travel Tips
Stay near the beach rather than in the main town which is pretty hectic!
Time your visit for turtle season - the best time to see turtles at Rekawa Beach is between April and July.
Bring cash - There are ATMs in Tangalle but most guesthouses, tuk-tuks and restaurants only accept cash.
Be careful of the ocean currents - The beaches here are beautiful but have strong currents and waves, the best swimming can be found at Goyambokka or Silent Beach
Final Thoughts on Goyambokka Beach
When you visit Tangalle we recommend heading to Goyambokka Beach to relax, enjoy the beachfront restaurants and spend a day soaking up the tropical sunshine. Don’t forget to grab a local lunch in Yellow Mellow and enjoy a cocktail… or three!
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Thank you for reading and enjoy your Sri Lankan adventure. Reach out to us over on Instagram @KateandMikesTravels. We always love to hear from people who read our blogs!
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